Canine Bladder Stones and Inflammation

Canine bladder inflammation, also known as cystitis, occurs when the bladder lining and submucosal layers become inflamed. Common symptoms include frequent urination, difficulty urinating, hematuria, urinary pain, and terminal urinary retention. This condition is generally caused by bacterial infections, mechanical stimulation and trauma, drug irritation, and the spread of inflammation from nearby organs. If the bladder stones and polyps are too large to block the urethra and prevent urination, surgery is required to remove them. Post-operative care includes fluid administration and anti-inflammatory treatment.

Causes of Cystitis

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder mucosa and submucosa, commonly caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Escherichia coli. These bacteria enter the bladder through the urethra via the bloodstream. Fungal infections can also occur due to fungal growth and invasion. In some cases, inflammation spreads from kidney or ureteral infections to the bladder, and in others, bladder stones and neoplasms stimulate the bladder mucosa causing inflammation. Treatment involves controlling infections, eliminating inflammation, appropriately using antibiotics, and administering hemostatic drugs for severely bleeding bladder inflammations.

Symptoms of Cystitis

When a dog has cystitis, they will exhibit the following symptoms. Inflammation in the bladder area causes pain, stimulating the urinary mucosa leading to frequent urination. Owners may observe their dog frequently squatting to urinate. Inflammation causes capillary leakage or rupture, resulting in blood-streaked urine. Due to frequent urination, the amount of urine per session decreases, and the bladder feels empty upon touch.

Treatment for Cystitis

When a dog has cystitis, treatment involves administering antibiotics such as those containing amoxicillin or enrofloxacin. Enrofloxacin is recommended primarily because it targets the urinary tract. However, it is not suitable for young dogs due to potential side effects that may cause developmental abnormalities in their cartilage.